Daena Santoyo
Co-Artistic Director, Executive Director
Producing Director • Educator • Marketing and Event Producer • Development • Fundraising
Daena Santoyo is proud to support theater arts, creativity, and education for children and families in the Ojai Valley. Since joining the Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio (OYES) in 2012, she has worked in various capacities and stepped into the role of Artistic Executive Director in 2016. Drawing from her background in project management and architectural design, Daena has focused on building practical systems, strengthening administrative operations, and developing sustainable programming. She values the opportunity to contribute to an organization that provides consistent, high-quality theater experiences for youth and is committed to navigating both the creative and logistical challenges that come with running a nonprofit arts program.
A trained Speech Level Singing (SLS) vocalist, Daena studied under renowned coaches including Laura Ahlstrand-Gwin and Broadway actress Anne Kerry Ford. She has directed and produced over 25 musical productions and brings decades of experience as an actor, educator, and solo performing artist.
Her work at OYES blends creative direction with practical leadership, where she produces original youth programs, oversees curriculum development, manages productions, and supports a team of teaching artists and theater professionals.
Philosophy:
From discipline, comes beauty.
